All events at the SSE Arena in Belfast are currently proceeding as planned, although those due to attend Tuesday's show with Prof Brian Cox have been advised to leave extra time for "additional security measures".

SSE Arena officials have held talks with the PSNI and Harbour Police and said they were taking steps to minimise any security risk at the venue.

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A book of condolence was opened at Belfast City Hall for the victims of the attack

Leaders of the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP), Sinn Féin, the Ulster Unionist Party (UUP), the Social Democratic and Labour Party (SDLP) and Alliance have all expressed shock and sympathy to those affected.

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Many young people were caught up in the bomb at a pop concert by US singer Ariana Grande

DUP leader Arlene Foster said: "Whilst terrorists can bring pain and grief, the kindness and generosity displayed by the people of Manchester has already shown that they will not win."

'Barbaric attack'

Sinn Féin's Stormont leader Michelle O'Neill said: "For something like that to happen while young people are out enjoying themselves is unthinkable."

Ulster Unionist leader Robin Swann said the "barbaric attack... was an attempt to destroy our way of life and will not succeed".

The party has postponed its manifesto launch, which had been due this Thursday, until Thursday of next week.

Suspending the SDLP's campaign, including its manifesto launch which was due to take place on Tuesday, party leader Colum Eastwood, said: "Today is a day for unity of purpose, not party political difference."

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Forensic investigators examined the venue in the aftermath of the bomb

Alliance leader Naomi Long said: "Those behind these attacks cannot be allowed to win. They try to threaten our very way of life but in doing so, inspire people to show the best of humanity by presenting generosity and compassion.